Jody Germaine

The Board discussed the preliminary budget for FY 2026-27, which includes a 7% sewer rate increase to fund the 10-year Capital Improvement Plan. Reports from various committees were presented, including personnel budget recommendations, right-of-way matters, and the CIP budget. The General Manager's report covered project updates, including sewer extensions in the Candler area, and the upcoming recruitment process for a new General Manager. The Board approved a resolution adopting the preliminary budget and the schedule of sewer rates and fees, as well as a consolidated motion agenda covering condemnation, compensation budgets, and developer-constructed sewer systems.

The Board discussed the potential removal of the Craggy Dam, focusing on a phased approach that begins with an independent valuation and involves collaboration to protect ratepayers and infrastructure, specifically addressing the 66-inch interceptor. Updates were provided on committee reports including personnel succession planning, developer-constructed sewer systems, auditing contracts, and revised purchasing policies. The Board also reviewed the 10-year Capital Improvement Program, focusing on treatment plant and pump station projects, master planning updates, and ongoing sewer rehabilitation efforts.

The board discussed the potential sale and removal of the Craggy Dam, focusing on environmental, safety, and economic impacts. The general manager emphasized the need for further due diligence, including independent financial appraisals and engineering assessments, to protect ratepayers and bond holders. Additionally, the board received updates on ongoing construction projects such as the Carrier Bridge Pump Station crossing and the Weaverville Pump Station, reviewed budget amendments, and approved various developer-constructed sewer systems.

The agenda includes a review of the third-quarter budget to actual performance for the fiscal year, a proposal for employee pay adjustments, and a review of the self-insured health plan. Additionally, the committee discussed the ten-year Capital Improvement Program, including priorities for collection system rehabilitation, pump station replacements, and water reclamation facility upgrades. The meeting also addressed financial forecasting, sewer rate survey data, and the proposed budget and sewer rates for the upcoming fiscal year.

The board meeting covered several critical infrastructure and financial topics. Key discussions included a detailed review of the Solids Handling Preliminary Engineering Report, which evaluates sludge management and promotes transitioning to thermal drying technology for long-term redundancy and capacity improvement. The board approved an owner's advisor contract to support these solids handling improvements. Additionally, the board considered and approved various infrastructure project contracts, including the Clayton Road Pump Station standpipe replacement and the West City View at Riverside Drive project. Developer-constructed sewer systems for multiple residential developments were accepted. Finally, the board approved a significant budget amendment for the Carrier Bridge Pump Station project to account for increased construction productivity and established a reimbursement resolution for future bond-financed projects.